February Marathons

12th Feb Waterside A 14 miles 21 portages.  This race is run as a time trial and is a must if your proposing doing the DW this year. The race is only open to pre-entered crews, starting at Great Bedwyn and finishing at Newbury. The event this year is already over-subscribled There are changing facilities, with basic refreshments available at Newbury. The club does a great job running this series of races, and if you are competing I wish you well, and please ensure that your support crews observe the race officials instructions and park their cars considerately at portages.

18th Feb Marathon Training day at Norwich, specifically aimed at paddlers looking to represent GB in International races,

19th Feb Hare & Hounds and Dash hounds. Great winter series and preparation of the season 6 miles and 2 portages or 3 miles with no portages. These races suit all ages and ability of paddlers.

19th Feb Thameside 1. This is a 12mile race with 8 portages. Starts at Aldermaston and finishes at Reading Canoe Club. A good race like the waterside series this is run as a time trial, and is a good race to do if your doing DW. Reading Canoe Club. The portages generally are not to difficult however care is needed getting in at County Lock due to the high walls and there is a long run at the last portage. Support crews need to get to the finish early as the parking there is a bit limited. There are good changing facilities and refreshments available at the finish.

24th Feb Waterside B 19 miles 14 portages. This is hard race starting and finishing at Newbury, and often requires extended running on the return to Newbury. There are very low bridges and the canal can get very bumpy as you approach the turn, watch out for the returning crews. Parking at Newbury is a bit limited so get there early. This race is really for dedicated DW crews and experienced paddlers.

Have fun

Peter Gorman